Sinus Infections Expert in Perumbakkam
Your Trusted Partner in Sinus Infections
Sinus infections happen when fluid builds up in the air-filled pockets in the face. We are here to provide you with top-notch care and guidance to tackle your problems.
Understanding Sinus Infections
Causes of Sinus Infections
Viruses, bacteria, fungi and allergens can cause sinusitis. Specific triggers for sinusitis include:
- The common cold.
- The flu (influenza).
- Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
- Haemophilus influenza bacteria.
- Moraxella catarrhalis bacteria.
- Nasal and seasonal allergies.
Symptoms of Sinus Infections:
- Bad breath or loss of smell
- Cough, often worse at night
- Fatigue and general feeling of being ill
- Fever
- Headache
- Pressure-like pain, pain behind the eyes
- Nasal stuffiness and discharge
- Sore throat and postnasal drip
Can sinusitis be prevented?
Depending on the cause, there are a few ways to reduce your risk of getting sinus infections, including:
- Rinsing your nose with saline (salt water) as directed by your provider.
- Taking steps to prevent allergies. This includes medications, allergy shots and avoiding your known allergy triggers (like dust, pollen or smoke).
- Using steroid nasal sprays if your provider recommends them.
- Establishing good handwashing and other habits that reduce your risk of getting sick with infectious diseases.
- Avoiding smoke. There are ways to help you quit smoking, if you do.
How is a Sinus Infection Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose sinusitis based on your symptoms and health history. A provider will check your ears, nose and throat for swelling, draining or blockage. They might use an endoscope (a small, lighted instrument) to look inside your nose.
A primary care provider may also refer you to a specialist, like otolaryngologist an (also called an ENT — an ear, nose and throat specialist).
What are the best medications for a Sinus Infection?
If you need an antibiotic, which one your provider prescribes depends on your specific situation. Some options include:
- Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate)
- Amoxicillin.
- Doxycycline.
- Levofloxacin.
- Cefixime.
- Cefpodoxime.
- Clindamycin.
How is Sinusitis Treated?
There are many treatment options for sinusitis, depending on your symptoms and how long you’ve had them. You can treat a sinus infection at home with:
- Decongestants.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) cold and allergy medications.
- Nasal Saline Rinses.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
If symptoms of sinusitis don’t improve after 10 days, a provider may prescribe:
- Antibiotics.
- Oral or topical decongestants.
- Prescription intranasal steroid sprays. (Don’t use nonprescription sprays or drops for longer than three to five days — they may actually increase congestion.)
Providers treat chronic sinusitis by focusing on the underlying condition. Treatments can include:
- Intranasal steroid sprays.
- Topical antihistamine sprays or oral pills.
- Leukotriene antagonisits like montelukast.
- Surgery to treat structural issues, polyps or fungal infections.
Frequently Asked Question on Sinus Infections
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinus lining, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, headache, and a runny or blocked nose.
Yes, sinusitis can be acute (short-term), subacute (lasting longer than acute but less than chronic), or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks).
Yes, allergic reactions to airborne allergens can contribute to sinusitis.
Acute viral sinusitis can be contagious, especially during the initial stages when the infection is most active.
Yes, sinusitis can cause a reduced or loss of sense of smell, known as anosmia.
Yes, sinusitis can cause referred pain to the ears due to the close proximity of the sinus and ear structures.
Sinus surgery, such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), may be recommended for chronic sinusitis that does not respond to conservative treatments or when structural issues are present.